Alexis Sanchez cut a desperate figure as Arsenal were thrashed 5-1 by Bayern Munich in the first leg of their last-16 Champions League showdown last night.Sanchez scored Arsenal’s equaliser but a staggering collapse in the second half mean Arsene Wenger needs a miracle in the return leg on March 7.And despite the rest of the Gunners squad arriving back in London late last night, Sanchez was seen leaving Heathrow Airport this morning.

Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez has been spotted flying out of Heathrow Airport the morning after the Gunners suffered an embarrassing 5-1 defeat to Bayern Munich

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Alexis Sanchez is spotted flying out of Heathrow Airport on Thursday morning

An Arsenal spokesperson confirmed Sanchez has been granted leave with the club’s permission.The Mirror say he caught a British Airways flight leaving at 8:45am this morning for Venice in Italy.Sanchez will now miss Arsenal’s FA Cup fifth-round clash with Sutton United on Monday (7.55pm).He has been Arsenal’s best player by far this season, scoring 20 goals in all competitions in his new role as a central striker.

Alexis Sanchez looks to the floor after Arsenal's 5-1 defeat to Bayern Munich

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Alexis Sanchez has less than 18 months to run on his Arsenal contract

But his future at the Emirates is under huge doubt, with less than 18 months left to run on his current contract.Talks between Arsenal and Sanchez over a new deal have stalled, with the 28-year-old wanting at least £200,000 a week. The 28-year-old is not expected to make a decision on his future until the summer, much like his manager Arsene Wenger.Sanchez his wanted at Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain and could also be targeted for a big-money move to China.

In December, Sanchez spoke about speculation surrounding his future, admitting the onus was on the club."I'm focused more on winning football matches – I'm staying concentrated on that,” Sanchez told Sky Sports."It really doesn't depend on me – if they want to show confidence in me. I'm very happy at the club. I love all the staff. I'm very grateful for everybody here."It depends on Arsenal. I enjoy the relationship with the fans. I want to achieve more for them. I want to win the Premier League and the Champions League."